Israel's Controlled Aid Entry into Gaza Amid Escalating Humanitarian Crisis

Israel announced a decision to allow the gradual and controlled entry of goods into Gaza via local merchants, as confirmed by a coordinating Israeli military agency on Tuesday. This development follows reports from global monitors indicating a famine is unfolding in the region, exacerbated by hostages held by Hamas.

COGAT, the Israeli military agency, revealed that a cabinet-approved mechanism will enhance the scope of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza, focusing on core necessities like food and hygiene products. The initiative seeks to reduce UN reliance, although the logistics remain uncertain amid Gaza's widespread destruction.

The U.N. and Palestinian officials emphasize the need for 600 aid trucks daily to suffice humanitarian demands, mirroring pre-war figures. Recent images of starvation, including children, have provoked global outrage, prompting Israel to facilitate more aid. Meanwhile, Hamas conditions aid delivery to hostages on Israel's cessation of airstrikes during aid distribution.

(With inputs from agencies.)